WISP2 in colorectal cancer: molecular mechanisms, tumor microenvironment, and clinical significance

WNT1-inducible signaling pathway protein 2 (WISP2/CCN5) is an important member of the CCN family and plays regulatory roles in cell proliferation, adhesion, migration, extracellular matrix remodeling, and tissue homeostasis. Accumulating evidence indicates that the biological functions of WISP2 in cancer are highly tissue- and context-dependent, and that WISP2 has been implicated in tumor initiation and progression by modulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), intracellular signaling pathways, and tumor microenvironment remodeling. In colorectal cancer (CRC), aberrant WISP2 expression may be associated with invasion-related phenotypes, immune-related features, and patient outcomes; however, its underlying molecular mechanisms and potential clinical relevance remain incompletely understood. This review summarizes current progress in understanding WISP2 in CRC, with particular emphasis on its expression patterns, associated signaling pathways, and potential links to EMT and the tumor immune microenvironment. In addition, the potential biomarker relevance and translational implications are discussed. By integrating currently available experimental and clinical literature, this review aims to provide a reference for a deeper understanding of the biological functions and clinical significance of WISP2 in CRC, and to offer a theoretical basis for future mechanistic studies and translational investigations.